Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is sacked by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Slowly but surely, DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller have returned back to the form they and the NFL expect. That needs to continue on Sunday against Arizona and its improved offensive line. One area of weakness for the Cardinals the last few seasons has been their line. Through the draft and free agency, Arians and Arizona are on the verge of making it a strength.
With yet another mobile quarterback in Drew Stanton, it is imperative for Ware, Miller and whoever else lines up at defensive end to keep their spot and hold containment. Against Alex Smith and Russell Wilson, they didn’t do that. Just think back to the final drive for the Seahawks when Wilson killed the defense with those scrambles.
If that happens again on Sunday, it could turn into a long day for Denver.
With how strong the Cardinals are with their rush attack, if Ware and Miller can get consistent pressure on Stanton, it will free up Danny Trevathan and his linebackers to focus on the run game and coverage.
But it starts up front.
What would also help is the front four stuffing that run game. As just noted, it frees up the linebackers and secondary.